A new era of African exploration dawns in the northwestern region of Zambia
Arrival at Lolelunga Private Reserve, Zambia
Lolelunga Private Reserve, a captivating 30,000-hectare sanctuary situated in the Kaonde area, just 30 kilometres / 19 miles north of Kafue National Park, welcomes its first guests in August 2025. This pioneering Big Five private reserve offers an immersive escape into the wild, blending a contemporary African style with a profound commitment to conservation and community.
The name “Lolelunga” is a blend of two words: “Lole,” the nickname of the owner’s last-born child, and “Lunga,” the name of the beautiful river that forms the northern boundary of the reserve. The Lunga River originates in Congo and is perennial, featuring some of the clearest and cleanest waters, offering outstanding fishing, fascinating aquatic reptiles, and birdlife.
The reserve also features swamp terrain, a habitat for one of the unique antelopes in Zambia, the Sitatunga, depicted on the logo.
Nestled along the banks of the Lunga River, Lolelunga provides an exceptional setting for families and safari aficionados seeking ethical and transformative travel. Especially in this post-pandemic world, where discerning travellers prioritize experiences that directly contribute to conservation and benefit local communities. Lolelunga not only delivers on this but offers exhilarating wildlife encounters while making a tangible difference.
This destination is perfect for couples or small groups, offering bespoke service and flexible itineraries. A four-to five-night stay allows ample time for guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural wonders of Lolelunga and this magnificent environment, balancing adventure with relaxation.
Witness the remarkable rebirth of this once-barren landscape into a thriving ecosystem. Lolelunga stands as a testament to the power of conservation, where careful stewardship and a deep respect for the land have fostered exceptional biodiversity and the reintroduction of game. Responsible travellers will witness firsthand the positive impact of their choices on both the environment and the local community.
The return of wildlife, including the elusive sitatunga and the recent release of the five cheetahs, speaks volumes about Lolelunga’s owners unwavering dedication to restoring the region’s rich biodiversity. It’s a vibrant ecosystem reborn.
A Conservation and Community Success Story
Lolelunga’s ten-year transformation is a testament to the power of regeneration. Once scarred by deforestation, logging, and poaching, this area has been meticulously restored, thanks to a deep partnership with the local Kaonde tribe. Remarkably, many of the reserve’s dedicated wildlife rangers are former poachers themselves, now guardians of the very wilderness they once threatened. Today, Lolelunga stands as the first fully fenced private reserve in Zambia to offer an authentic Big Five photographic safari experience – lion, Cheetah, buffalo, elephant, and soon, black rhino.
The commitment of Zambian owners, dedicated to building a legacy for future environmentalists, shines through in their unique wildlife management projects. The successful 2024 reintroduction of five cheetahs is just one example, paving the way for future projects like the reintroduction of black rhino in the months ahead, further cementing Lolelunga’s position as a beacon of conservation.
Lolelunga Private Reserve: Unassuming Luxury in the Heart of the Wild
Lolelunga accommodates only 14 guests in a choice of secluded accommodation that combines three standard King rooms, two Junior suites and a family suite, convertible into two extra standard King rooms. Amenities include a fully equipped gym, swimming pool, spa, and diverse dining areas.
For an unforgettable romantic experience, the Ngoma Deck can be reserved for private dining or a starlit sleepout.
Ngoma Deck, Lolelunga Private Reserve
The lodge’s design philosophy is a result of South African boutique interior design company, FYGG Studios and their emphasis of understated elegance. With an approach to collaborate closely with their clients, offering a design process that is both approachable and down-to-earth, each spacious suite in this instance, offers breathtaking views of the Lunga River, while natural materials like stone, timber, and woven textures create a seamless connection with the surrounding wilderness.
Views across the Lunga River, Lolelunga Private Reserve
Unforgettable Safari Adventures
From thrilling game drives to tranquil fishing expeditions, Lolelunga offers a fully inclusive package covering it all: accommodation, all activities, meals, and beverages. Explore the wonders of the area with expert guides through a variety of activities, including:
- Twice-daily game drives
- Walking safaris
- Catch-and-release fishing
- Guided canoeing
- Exceptional birdwatching
- Archery
Whilst younger guests can discover their own adventures at the Lolelunga Nature Navigators Club.
But Lolelunga’s impact goes far beyond its flourishing wildlife. They’re also deeply invested in the local community, building two secondary schools, drilling over 50 boreholes for fresh water, and providing agricultural support to 500 families. A brand-new private airstrip now ensures vital medical supplies reach six local clinics.
Whether you’re a multi-generational family seeking a shared adventure, honeymooners craving a magical escape, avid birders with binoculars at the ready, keen anglers hoping for a trophy catch, or seasoned safari enthusiasts yearning for an authentic and impactful African experience, Lolelunga has something extraordinary to offer.
ZAMBIA LUXURY LODGE COLLECTION:
Established in 2024, the company offers unforgettable safari experiences for both seasoned enthusiasts and first-time visitors to Africa. Four exceptional lodges, located in Zambia’s prime wildlife locations, including South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi National Parks, comprise a curated circuit showcasing the very best of Zambia.
https://zambialuxurylodges.com/
Properties that fall within the owner’s portfolio:
- 2025 will see the grand reopening of the luxurious, reimagined Chichele Presidential in South Luangwa, once the original safari retreat for the First President Kenneth Kaunda.
- Later, in August, the owner’s transformed Lolelunga Private Reserve, encompassing 30,000-hectares of commitment to conservation and the community will open its doors.
- Not forgetting the award-winning Lolebezi Safari Lodge located in the untouched wilderness within the Lower Zambezi National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Zambia.
- Plus the award-winning Puku Ridge, which was the very first of ZLLC’s safari lodges, situated also in the South Luangwa National Park, not far from Chichele Presidential.
However, this release has been written with the objective to highlight the launch of the highly anticipated Lolelunga Private Reserve – without doubt a very exceptional destination expected to become a sought-after experience for those seeking a unique wildlife experience.
HOW TO GET TO LOLELUNGA PRIVATE RESERVE:
Lolelunga Private Reserve is a privately owned property covering a total of 30,000 hectares. It is located in the north-western part of Zambia, in the Kaonde land, bordering the Kafue National Park.
INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL:
Kenneth Kaunda International Airport is connected to the rest of the world via regular, direct flights to Dubai, Doha, Addis Ababa, Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Harare, Livingstone and Lilongwe
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS:
A private charter will fly guests into Lolelunga Private Reserve from Lusaka International, Livingstone, Jeki/Royal Airstrip in the Lower Zambezi or Mfuwe International. Guests will land on Lolelunga’s 1.1 kilometer gravel runway. A maximum of a Grand caravan can land at Lolelunga. Flight time from Lusaka International 45 minutes, From Livingston 01h30, From Lower Zambezi 01h10, from Mfuwe 02H00
TRANSFER FROM THE AIRPORT:
Guests will disembark on arrival and be taken to the airside a welcome lounge where they will be transferred to the lodge in open 4×4 vehicles. The transfer to the lodge is 5 minutes.
BEST TIME TO VISIT LOLELUNGA:
Typically, the most appealing time to visit Lolelunga would be when the weather is dry, with a pleasant temperature and less humidity. The months from May to November present this desirable weather.
RESERVATIONS: dosm@zambialuxurylodges.com
FYGG STUDIOS:
With offices in South Africa and Dubai, this boutique design studio is committed to creating unique, thoughtfully designed spaces. Their approach is grounded in collaboration, offering a design process that is both approachable and down-to-earth, infusing every project with expressive creativity, blending spontaneity and passion to craft interiors that feel both natural and thoughtfully curated.
https://fyggstudio.co/